Eat these 5 unexpected foods to ease arthritis symptoms

From mylondon.news

Arthritis affects millions in the UK - but anti-inflammatory foods could help 

Arthritis is a crippling condition that impacts around 10 million people in the UK. Sufferers know all too well the joint pain and stiffness that comes with it, and for those battling forms like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, it is vital to find ways to lessen the daily discomfort.

In partnership with British brand HSL, a specialist in posture support furniture, occupational therapist Julie Jennings has suggested that diet might be the key to alleviating arthritis symptoms. She explains: "Certain ingredients have been shown to reduce inflammation, boost your immune system and strengthen bones."

Teaming up with Carolina Goncalves, superintendent pharmacist at Pharmica, HSL have revealed the top anti-inflammatory foods to add to your meals. Check out the list below.

Oily fish

We're constantly told about the health benefits of oily fish, particularly for brain health, but they also have anti-inflammatory properties that can alleviate arthritis pain. Carolina explained: "Fatty fish contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are converted into anti-inflammatory compounds in the body. These compounds can help curb the production of inflammatory cytokines, which tend to break down cartilage and contribute to arthritis."

Julie advised: "To eat more omega-rich foods, turn to fish like salmon and mackerel. Both are great roasted and are lovely served with new potatoes paired with green vegetables like asparagus or tenderstem broccoli. Tuna, sardines and cod are also great varieties to add to your diet."

Flaxseed

For those who prefer a vegetarian option, never fear there are plenty of fish-free sources available. Carolina suggested: "Individuals looking for a plant-based option that offers a similar effect can consider flaxseeds, which are a rich source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA, a type of plant-based omega-3 fatty acid)."

Julie added: "For many, flaxseed may be an ingredient they're not familiar with or used in their cooking before, but it is really easy to incorporate in your meals. Simply dust over your cereal or into porridge during breakfast, add as an extra component in baking mixtures, or even sprinkle it into a salad!".

Chicken skin

Chicken skin might have more health benefits than we thought

Often discarded as unhealthy, chicken skin might just have some unexpected health perks. Carolina explained: "Chicken skin contains type II collagen, which some studies have found may help reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis by potentially aiding in the rebuilding of cartilage and helping to maintain cartilage elasticity. Individuals who do not wish to consume the chicken skin itself could also render it down to cook with it or include it in a soup or broth, in which the collagen will dissolve once the chicken skin is cooked."

Berries

Nutrition experts have hailed berries as an all-year-round superfood, rich in essential nutrients that are key for optimal health. These delicious fruits are much more than mere snacks - they're lauded for their incredible health benefits, being dense with important vitamins.

Discussing the impressive health effects of berries, Carolina highlighted: "The naturally occurring antioxidants in berries can help prevent arthritis by fighting free radicals in the body that could potentially damage cells and contribute to the inflammatory processes associated with arthritis."

Offering tips on how to enjoy these nutrient-rich fruits, Julie recommended: "To add more berries to your diet, why not try making homemade smoothies? Not only are they tasty, but super refreshing during the warmer summer months. Blueberries are known to have the most antioxidants, with raspberries and goji berries following close behind."

Olive oil

Olive oil has plenty of health benefits (Image: Getty)

Moving onto another nutritious ingredient commonly found in our kitchens, olive oil isn't just a fantastic choice for cooking - it's packed with health benefits too.

Carolina shared her insights about olive oil, saying: "Olive oil contains a compound called oleocanthal, which some studies suggest can have similar effects on the body as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen. It is thought that oleocanthal inhibits the activity of COX enzymes, reducing the production of pro-inflammatory substances and helping to prevent inflammation and associated pain in arthritis."

While experts stress that adding these beneficial foods to your diet can help with arthritis symptoms, they also emphasise the importance of maintaining other healthy habits, as nutrition alone isn't a cure-all.

https://www.mylondon.news/news/health/eat-5-unexpected-foods-ease-29861154